Pulis - No hurry over Huth

Tony Pulis has confirmed Stoke are looking to reach an agreement with defender Robert Huth over a new deal but insists there is no rush.

Last Updated: 19/04/12 3:06pm

Robert Huth: Has been linked with a return to his native Germany in the summer

Tony Pulis has confirmed Stoke are looking to reach an agreement with defender Robert Huth over a new deal but insists there is no rush, with a year left to run on his current contract.

The 27-year-old has established himself as a first-team regular at the Britannia Stadium since joining from Middlesbrough in 2009, scoring five goals for the Potters this season.

Huth, whose deal expires at the end of next season, has been linked with a move back to his native Germany this summer but Pulis is hopeful he can retain the stopper's services.

No rush

"Huthy has a year left, so there is no immediate rush with him," said the manager.

"But the club is keen to get something done and so is Robert. So fingers crossed something can be ironed out."

Stoke are pushing for a first top-10 Premier League finish this season but could face a tough task overcoming in-form Newcastle at the weekend.

Pulis feels it would be good for the top-flight if the Magpies managed to secure a top-four finish.

Alan Pardew's men currently lie fifth, level on points with fourth-placed Tottenham with five games to go, and well in contention for a UEFA Champions League berth.

Although both Spurs and Manchester City have made their debut in the competition in recent years by breaking into the top four, it would be the biggest surprise yet if the Tyneside outfit - only promoted back to the English top flight just under two years ago - managed to return to Europe's top table.

They last featured in the Champions League when they were eliminated in the qualifying rounds in 2003 and Pulis would be delighted to see them rubbing shoulders with the continent's elite once again.

Fantastic job

"I think it would be lovely for the Premier League to have someone new and fresh getting in there - although I'm sure the rest of the teams up there will have something to say about that as well," he said.

"Alan has done a fantastic job but this is the business end of the season now when they have to push forward and push on.

"As with the top two teams (City and league leaders Manchester United), who have got the bit between their teeth - it is who gets their noses over the line first.

"It is great for us as a football nation if you get a team outside what is supposed to be the top six group getting into it and working hard to try to stay there."